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10 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 18 OCTOBER 2024 CULTURE Malta and Gozo set to shine in major new international TV series 'Falcon' IL-ĦAĠAR Museum's hectic cultural programme continues this Saturday, 19 October, at 11am, with a commemorative event paying tribute to Gozitan poet and linguist Frank Mercie- ca. A dairy foreman by profession, Mercieca was born in Victoria on 30 August 1937. He studied in Malta, Lebanon, Estonia, Scot- land, and Denmark. Later in life, he dedicated himself to agricul- ture and the study of the Maltese language. He wrote numerous articles in local papers debating recent changes in Maltese orthography and grammar. He also wrote po- etry. A key figure in St George's Square, Mercieca was always sur- rounded by an attentive group of friends debating current affairs, history, and, of course, the Mal- tese language. He passed away on 9 November 2011. The event will feature an ad- dress by John Cremona, Assis- tant National Archivist for Gozo, and musical interludes by the BrassTubes ensemble, directed by Mark Gauci. On Tuesday 22 October at 6.30pm, Il-Ħaġar Museum, in collaboration with Victoria Hot- spurs Football Club and the Mal- tese Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport, is presenting a talk by Andy Grech, Head of Educa- tion and Policy at the authority. The speaker will delve into the critical issues of anti- doping and competition manipulation in sports. Doping involves the use of banned substances or methods to artificially enhance athletic per- formance, violating the integrity of sport and jeopardising athletes' health. Similarly, competition manipulation refers to any act designed to improperly influence the outcome of a sporting event, often for personal, financial, or political advantage. These practices severely under- mine fair competition and the core values of sport. This lecture will explore the impact of these unethical behav- iours on the sporting world and discuss strategies to protect the integrity of competitions. Grech is pursuing a career in Sport Policy, Management, and International Development. With a focus on addressing con- temporary challenges in sports management, he supports gov- erning bodies in their efforts to shape sporting opportunities and align sport with broader social policy objectives. Both events are free, but seat reservations are recommended by sending an email to events@ heartofgozo.org.mt. More details about upcoming events at Il-Ħaġar can be found by visiting the museum's re- cently launched website: https:// heartofgozo.mt/il-hagar-events- booklet-oct-dec-24/. Cultural tribute and sports integrity lecture at Il-Hagar Museum Frank Mercieca FALCON, a brand-new international thriller, will not only feature a star-stud- ded cast but also star the breathtaking is- lands of Malta and Gozo. Producer and actor Daniel Coll is now in Malta for crucial development meetings Filming is set to take place entirely in these stunning locations, promising to showcase the incredible landscapes, his- tory, and charm of Malta and Gozo like never before. Described as a mix between Indiana Jones and The Da Vinci Code, Falcon fol- lows Greg Falcon (Noah Huntley) as he uncovers a dark online conspiracy during a vacation in Malta and Gozo. With the help of Professor Victoria Bassey (Victo- ria Ekanoye), Falcon uncovers an ancient mystery that leads them face to face with Hector Laidlaw, a charming yet danger- ous influencer played by Peter Andre. Together, they must race against time to stop a sinister plot dating back nearly two thousand years. Malta and Gozo take centre stage More than just a backdrop, Malta and Gozo will truly star in Falcon, with their scenic vistas, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant modern culture setting the stage for this thrilling adventure. Producer and actor Daniel Coll, who is currently in Malta to discuss devel- opment plans for the series over the coming weeks, shared his excitement about Malta and Gozo taking center stage. "We are in final development, and these islands are going to steal the show. Malta and Gozo have this in- credible mix of old and new, histo- ry and modern life, all set against jaw-dropping landscapes," he said. "They are truly unique, and I can't wait for viewers to see it when they've been brought to life on screen. It's go- ing to be amazing for the islands, not just as a filming location but for tour- ism and job creation too." Star-studded cast Peter Andre takes on the role of Hector Laidlaw, a charming yet om- inous villain who uses his influence to manipulate those around him. "I'm really excited to take on this character," Andre said. "Hector is clever, dark, and dangerous—it's going to be a challenge, but I think audiences are going to love him. Plus, filming in Malta and Gozo is such a great idea. The islands have so much character, and it will really show on screen." Leading the cast is Noah Huntley (Snow White and The Huntsman, 28 Days Lat- er) as Greg Falcon, and Victoria Ekanoye (The Turkish Detective, Coronation Street) as Professor Victoria Bassey. The series will also feature Richard Ashton (1947, Art Detectives,Doctor Who, Vickings, Outland), Joe Savino (Ballykissangel, Braveheart), and Dan- iel Coll (Emmerdale and Braveheart), alongside local Maltese talent, with plans to incorporate even more actors from Malta and Gozo in future epi- sodes. Long-term commitment Falcon is not just a one-off project. With plans to produce eight episodes annually for many years to come, the series is set to make a long-lasting im- pact on Malta and Gozo. "We're in this for the long haul," Coll said. "Each year, we plan to produce more episodes, working with local talent, and show- casing more of what these incredible islands have to offer. It's a win-win for everyone involved, and I'm confident this series will create a real buzz about Malta and Gozo." With its breathtaking locations, thrilling storyline, and a mix of international and local talent, Falcon is set to become a ma- jor hit when it premieres next summer.